With the vast distances involved, any manned mission to Mars won’t be able to haul substantial solid buildings to another planet. The easiest solution would be to use what’s already there. Researchers from Kharazmi University in Tehran, Iran explored several possible materials. Their findings were published in the journal Acta Astronautica. An excerpt from the report reads:

“Although it is a bit strange, blood can be utilized to create strong concrete or bricks for onsite construction on Mars. After the arrival of the first Martian inhabitants and their placement in primary structures, which can include inflatable structures, the combination of tears, blood, and sweat from the inhabitants, along with Martian regolith, can be used to produce a concrete known as AstroCrete. The production process is simple.”. //

The researchers note that ancient Romans used animal blood to reinforce their mortar. However, AstroCrete has some issues. Living on Mars will be a physical challenge and forcing astronauts to constantly donate blood would hamper progress on all other projects on the Martian surface. Also, the material’s low density would offer lackluster protection against cosmic radiation.

The running slope is to be uniform along a run, although slight variations may occur with certain materials such as concrete. No other changes in level other than the running slope (1:12 maximum) and cross slope (1:48 maximum) are permitted. //

Ramp runs must have a clear width of 36″ minimum (measured between handrails where provided). //

The height of runs is limited (30″ maximum), but there is no limit on the number of runs a ramp may have. //

Intermediate landings between runs must be at least 60″ wide clear and 60″ long clear where ramps change direction (any change from linear). Handrails, edge protection, vertical posts and other elements cannot obstruct or overlap the minimum 60″ by 60″ clearance. //

Handrails are required on both sides of ramps with a rise greater than 6″.

Handrail height of 34-38" consistent along length, 20-28" in play areas. //

Edge protection along ramp runs and landings keep wheelchair casters and crutch tips on the surface and can be provided by curbs, barriers, or extended surfaces.

• Curbs if used must be at least 4″ high.
• Rails or other barriers must prevent passage of a 4″ diameter sphere.
• Vertical pickets used for edge protection must prevent passage of a 4″ diameter sphere.
• Run and landing surfaces that extend at least 12″ beyond the inside face of handrails will provide adequate edge protection by preventing wheelchair casters and crutch tips from slipping off the edge.

The Atkore Defender coating has proven to be ideal for corrosive outdoor environments in many common applications including industrial facilities, rooftop supports, transportation, railways, parking structures, bridges, solar panel framing, walkways, platforms, railing, theme parks, and more.

To compare Atkore Defender against traditional Hot-Dip Galvanized products, an independent, accredited laboratory exposed samples of both systems to continuous salt spray for 3,000 hours in accordance with a leading industry standard for corrosion testing, ASTM B117. Results showed that Atkore Defender samples lasted more than three times as long as Hot-Dip Galvanized samples. The coating also has a self-healing property that allows it to reprotect itself against most cuts and scratches

Recommendations for remaining organized throughout the electrical estimating process